Physiotherapy

Can be provided either on a one-to-one or group basis, in the MS Therapy Centre. Group sessions consist of Circuit Classes, Mat Classes (floor exercises), Pilates and Hydrotherapy.

Role of the Physiotherapist in MS

Physiotherapists play an important role in the management of MS. They specialise in the assessment and treatment of many symptoms associated with MS, such as muscle weakness, spasticity, reduced balance, pain, gait and postural problems. The Physiotherapist also plays a vital role in communicating with other members of the Multi-Disciplinary Team to ensure holistic treatment of the client.

Physiotherapy is offered in a variety of ways. For safety purposes, all new clients to the centre will have an assessment with a physiotherapist (even if they don’t require physiotherapy) and, if physiotherapy is requested, a discussion will be had between the individual and the physiotherapist as to the most suitable format.

In the MS Therapy Centre, Physiotherapy can be provided either on a one-to-one or group basis. Group sessions consist of Circuit Classes, Chair exercise classes, Falls Prevention Classes, Pilates and Hydrotherapy. We also have access to a range of equipment such as a Standing Frame, Tilt Table, Treadmill, Exercise Bike, Upper & Lower Limb Active-Passive Trainers, Shoulder Pulley systems, and a Nintendo Wii, all to promote improved fitness and balance.

Exercise Classes

Hydrotherapy

Hydrotherapy is a treatment modality that uses therapeutic exercises in a heated pool environment. It utilises the warmth of the water to relax muscles and relieve pain and muscle spasm.

In people with MS research has shown that hydrotherapy helps to improve:- muscle strength, aerobic fitness, gait and mobility, quality of life and wellbeing, reduces spasticity, pain and swelling of the limbs.

Pilates

Pilates is a Mind-Body exercise which focuses on strengthening the deepest abdominal muscles, while maintaining normal alignment and good posture. It also incorporates lower leg strengthening exercises which is very beneficial for people with MS.

These classes are based on the programme “Getting the Balance Right”, which was an country-wide research-based exercise program initiative developed in 2009 by University of Limerick and MS Ireland. It involves 10 different stations and the client’s spend two minutes performing an exercise at each station. The exercises consist of a combination of upper and lower limb strengthening, aerobic exercises and balance exercises.

Chair Class

These classes are for people who aren’t able to participate in exercises in standing. It consists of a warm up, upper and lower strengthening exercises all done in sitting. The class lasts 45 minutes.

Falls Prevention Classes

The Falls Prevention Classes are based on the “Otago Exercise Programme”. The class is run for one hour once per week. It includes a warm up, lower limb strengthening exercises and a series of balance/gait exercises.

Physiotherapy Timetable

One-to-one sessions are available from Mon-Fri 09:30-16:30 and usually last 45 minutes.